Engineering possibly at risk if more students don’t study maths and physics

14 April, 2016

A significant knowledge gap on the vital significance of Maths and Physics skills risks damaging the UK’s future, according to a new report published today by AT Kearney in partnership with the Your Life campaign.

Alison Carr, director of policy at the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), said: “We need to have more young people studying all of the engineering gateway subjects to ensure that they are not shutting the door on an exciting, creative career in engineering.

“There is huge demand for engineers so it is important that young people have the opportunity to continue their studies. The country needs more people studying science and engineering subjects and taking up apprenticeships.

“We are at risk of stifling economic growth if we do not encourage more students to study STEM subjects which are crucial to ensuring a healthy and balanced economy.”

Research from the IET shows that there is a growing need to change perceptions of what modern engineering is and what it can offer young people, particularly girls, in terms of a career. The key to doing this is by changing the perceptions of parents who are highly influential in their child’s decision making processes and showing them that engineering doesn’t have to be a messy, mechanical or physically demanding career choice.

There is a substantial demand for engineers. The IET’s most recent Skills & Demand in Industry Report showed that 64 per cent of companies indicated concerns that shortage of engineers would be a threat to their business.